Hands-on Black Rhino and Elephant Conservation
with Conservation Travel Africa
Conservation Travel Africa works with existing conservation and development projects that are committed to long-term environmental and community principles. We collaborate with conservation experts and community leaders to identify the areas of need where volunteer contributions will have the greatest impact.
Our programmes are designed to meet real conservation and community needs through voluntary efforts, NOT to meet tourist needs through contrived conservation and cultural experiences. We believe that supporting these projects is more beneficial and meaningful than setting up a new project simply to meet the desire of an overseas visitor.
Our programmes endeavour to use responsible tourism practices to build sustainable economies in Africa which place increased value on wildlife and environmental conservation from the ground up.
The course description
a typical day on this gap project
There's no such thing as a typical day on this programme!
Each work day (Monday - Saturday morning) is split into three sessions (two on a Saturday).
The first session will usually involve hands-on interaction with either our elephants or rhino (could be tracking, monitoring behaviour or cleaning out beds).
The second session could be out in the game park where you will be monitoring and reporting on herds of sable, zebra and buffalo etc or doing anti-poaching patrols and snare sweeps across the game park. Twice a week you will also spend the morning in the local school, helping with English literacy and reading.
After a hearty lunch, feed the crocodile, lion and hyena, undertake building projects or remove non-indigenous plants from around the game park.
Who are we looking for?
the requirements for this course
This project is open to volunteers aged 17 and over. There is no maximum age limit, but volunteers must be in good general health and fitness as there is some foot-based tracking and walking involved in the project.
What can we offer you?
why choose us for your gap year
The programme fee includes:
- Return transfers from Harare International Airport (or any location within Harare) to the project on any Monday throughout the year (including Christmas and New Year).
- All meals (including tea, coffee and soft drinks) and accommodation
- Transport and equipment to do your work
- Orientation and training, plus a full safety briefing on living in a game park
- 24-hour assistance from on-site coordinators and office back-up from Conservation Travel Africa staff
- Financing which goes back into the project